On the occasion of the 206th anniversary of the May Revolution on May 25, Argentine Ambassador to Việt Nam Claudio Ricardo Gutiérrez shares his impressions on relations between Argentina and Việt nam and his 3-years of working experience in the country.

On May 25, 2016 Argentina marked the 206th anniversary of the May Revolution, a historical milestone that paved the way for the establishment of the First National Government of Argentina.

The next breakthrough in that process was the Declaration of National Independence on July 9, 1816.

This year, July 9 will be a date of high significance, as Argentines will mark 200 years of the Independence Declaration.

Throughout these two centuries, Argentina has made remarkable achievements. These include an integrated multiethnic society that is open to immigration, a prominent industrial base and scientific development, as well as a highly skilled workforce.

Argentina has attained a very high level of human development, the first among Latin American countries, according to the United Nations Development Programme.

Our country still has universal and free public education as well as health systems.

However, there are still challenges to be addressed, including achieving economic development with full social inclusion, without forgoing the defence of democracy, separation of powers and individual freedoms.

It is an honor for me to be able to celebrate this special date for all Argentines in Việt Nam. Our two countries have developed a multifaceted bilateral relationship that strengthens daily in all fields: politics, co-operation trade, culture and tourism.

This celebration is very special to me because it is my last in this beloved country, given the completion of my term as the Argentine Ambassador to the Socialist Republic of Việt Nam.

Over the past three years at the helm of the Embassy of Argentina, I had a fulfilling working experience in Việt Nam, which yielded several concrete achievements in the fields of co-operation and trade.

Groundwork has been laid for the new Argentine and Vietnamese governments to continue strengthening bilateral relations for the benefit of our peoples.

I will always remember the affection, friendship and warmth of the Vietnamese people, as well as the country’s stunning landscapes, its diversity and smiles.

As was the case 200 years ago in my country, Việt Nam, more than 40 years ago and after centuries of struggle, affirmed its right to rule itself without foreign interference. It did so like few other countries in the world and at a very high human, economic and environmental cost.

Today, we can see how Việt Nam looks into the future devoid of resentment, not even against once enemies.

This illustrates how striving for peace can be the most beneficial and rational path towards prosperity.

We have much to learn from this country, not only in terms of perseverance, determination and patriotism, but also how to turn pain and suffering into co-operation and hope.

Finally I would like to express the confidence that the Argentine and Vietnamese governments will continue to enhance the bilateral relationship by working every day with humility and sacrifice for our nations, for our peoples, for our present and for our future. — VNS